Bulgogi, a staple in Korean cuisine, traditionally features thinly sliced marinated beef grilled or stir-fried to perfection. But when you swap out steak for ground beef, you get a faster, budget-friendly version that delivers the same bold, savory-sweet flavors without the extra prep time.
Whether you’re new to Korean flavors or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, ground beef bulgogi is a game-changer.
Why Ground Beef Bulgogi Works
Using ground beef instead of sliced ribeye or sirloin has several advantages:
- Quicker to prepare – No need to slice or marinate for hours.
- More affordable – Ground beef is often cheaper than premium cuts.
- Versatile – Works well in rice bowls, lettuce wraps, tacos, or even as a burger topping.
The key to a great ground beef bulgogi is the sauce. A mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and a touch of heat from gochujang or red pepper flakes creates a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of ground beef is best for bulgogi?
An 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio works best. Too lean (like 90/10) can make the beef dry, while too much fat (like 70/30) can make it greasy.
2. Can I make ground beef bulgogi ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats well, making it great for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for up to three months.
3. How can I make ground beef bulgogi healthier?
- Use leaner beef (like 90/10) and drain excess fat.
- Swap out brown sugar for honey or coconut sugar.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on salt.
- Add extra veggies like shredded carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrients.
4. What are the best ways to serve ground beef bulgogi?
- Over rice – The classic way, served with kimchi or pickled veggies.
- In lettuce wraps – A low-carb option with a fresh crunch.
- As tacos – Served in tortillas with Korean-inspired slaw.
- With noodles – Tossed with stir-fried veggies and ramen or udon.
- As a burger – Topped with kimchi and gochujang mayo.
5. Can I make a vegetarian version of ground beef bulgogi?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat and use the same marinade for a similar flavor.
Final Thoughts
Ground beef bulgogi is the perfect fusion of convenience and bold Korean flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable, and works well in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a high-protein dinner, or a creative way to enjoy Korean-inspired food, this dish delivers.
Try it in different forms—over rice, in tacos, or as a burger topping—to keep things interesting. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, ground beef bulgogi deserves a spot in your weeknight meal rotation.
